Airport soars to record-breaking half term

A North East transport hub has recorded its busiest-ever May half term as growing demand for leisure and international travel continues to drive passenger growth.

Newcastle International Airport welcomed more than 200,000 passengers during the school holiday period, an increase of eight per cent compared to the same period last year.

Popular destinations included Alicante, Ibiza and Palma, while city break favourites such as Dublin and Paris also attracted strong demand. 

Many travellers also used the airport’s global hub connections to reach long-haul destinations including Bali, New York and Tokyo.

The record follows recent Civil Aviation Authority figures that named Newcastle Airport the fastest growing of the UK’s 15 largest airports during the first quarter of 2026.

Growth has been supported by continued airline investment, with Jet2 adding routes to Porto, Preveza and Palermo. 

easyJet has also expanded its presence with a new base serving 22 destinations, while Ryanair and Eurowings have introduced additional services and capacity.

To support its largest-ever flight schedule, the airport is investing almost £60 million over two years in facility upgrades, including a three-storey terminal extension and an expanded international arrivals area designed to improve the passenger experience.

Nick Jones, chief executive at Newcastle Airport, said: “Achieving a record-breaking May half term and being recognised for our strong growth is fantastic news and reflects the high demand for flights and package holidays from the North East. 

“The continued investment from our airline partners is creating even more choice for our passengers, whether they’re enjoying a well-earned break in the sun, a European city break, visiting friends and family or embarking on a long-haul adventure. 

“As we head into the peak summer season, we look forward to welcoming even more passengers through our doors, while also helping to bring more visitors from around the world to experience everything our region has to offer.” 

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